5 Conclusion
In this chapter, we have reviewed different aspects that regulate the use of
carbohydrates and proteins for successful drug delivery. Recent research trends in
this area have generated a broad spectrum of these biopolymeric nanocarriers
offering varying drug incorporation and release profiles, depending on the choice
of the matrix and nature of the drug. The ultimate fate of the nanocarriers in terms of
their physical and biological stability and in vivo circulation are discussed, as well
as the design of long-circulating carriers with optimal biological performance
through appropriate choice of the material, route of preparation, and surface
functionalization. Although certain biopolymers are known to induce blood
incompatibilities or immunogenicity, these properties can be manipulated for better
Fig. 6 Glycosylation of nanocarriers can help evade its cellular toxicity [86]
Proteins and Carbohydrates as Polymeric Nanodrug Delivery Systems. . .
263
In this chapter, we have reviewed different aspects that regulate the use of
carbohydrates and proteins for successful drug delivery. Recent research trends in
this area have generated a broad spectrum of these biopolymeric nanocarriers
offering varying drug incorporation and release profiles, depending on the choice
of the matrix and nature of the drug. The ultimate fate of the nanocarriers in terms of
their physical and biological stability and in vivo circulation are discussed, as well
as the design of long-circulating carriers with optimal biological performance
through appropriate choice of the material, route of preparation, and surface
functionalization. Although certain biopolymers are known to induce blood
incompatibilities or immunogenicity, these properties can be manipulated for better
Fig. 6 Glycosylation of nanocarriers can help evade its cellular toxicity [86]
Proteins and Carbohydrates as Polymeric Nanodrug Delivery Systems. . .
263